Every year on Nov. 10, the Marine Corps birthday is the proudest night of the proudest branch.
Marines everywhere celebrate their shining history, their impressive accomplishments, their love and commitment to the Corps and their reflection and respect for the fallen ones. All while dining and dancing at a ball that each unit plans throughout the whole year, decked out in full Dress Blues and accompanied by dates in formal evening attire.
And yes, there are usually cocktails involved.
But what does this tradition mean to these over-deployed, over-worked, over-endangered and under-paid men and women? And what do the old credentials mean to them in the context of these politically charged times?
The long celebrated birthday custom has its origin in 1775, with a historical decree from the Second Continental Congress in Tun Tavern in Philadelphia, known to Marines as the birthplace of the Corps.
But it wasn't until WWII that the Marine Corps grew into its present concept -- an amphibious force -- which may be the reason why this is such a unique branch.
The proof is the lingering loyalty to this institution by actively participating members and the "no-longer-active participants" -- because as the saying goes, "once a Marine, always a Marine."
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Throughout the Corps' 235 years, the Marines have served no matter the country's international or domestic agendas.
"No matter what the debate is, we will continue to obey our Commander in Chief, " said Master Sgt. Robert Linares
Chief Warrant Officer Jeromye Rogers, who lost half of his leg in Iraq, says without hesitation that if he could go back and do it again, he would still enlist.
"Sorry for what? It's what I signed up for," Rogers said.
It's hard to overlook that the men and women in USMC camouflage are dedicated to the Corps.
So happy birthday, Marines, and for those of you in harms way, may a higher power keep you safe.
